Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a truly unforgettable dessert: the **Cinnamon Roll Pie**. This isn’t just any pie; it’s a sublime fusion of soft, gooey cinnamon rolls, warm brown sugar, and crunchy pecans, all baked into a luscious, crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Perfect for transforming your breakfast routine, elevating a casual brunch, or adding a touch of homemade warmth to any holiday gathering, this pie is remarkably easy to assemble and irresistibly delicious. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes, promising a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
The Cinnamon Roll Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. Each bite delivers the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll, elevated into a sophisticated pie format. The unique crust, crafted from store-bought cinnamon rolls, creates a soft, tender base that perfectly complements the rich, nutty filling. A delicate glaze drizzles over the top, adding a final touch of sweetness that ties all the decadent layers together, making it a truly satisfying treat for any occasion.
If you’re a fan of cinnamon, you’re in for a real treat. This pie joins a beloved family of cinnamon-infused desserts that promise warmth and comfort with every bite. You might also enjoy exploring other delightful recipes such as our Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, a moist and flavorful cake soaked in sweet goodness; our wholesome Cinnamon Roll Bread, perfect for sharing; or a traditional Cinnamon Pie for a purist’s delight. For those who appreciate a classic nutty pie, our Easy Pecan Pie Recipe is another fantastic option to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Table of Contents
- Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try
- Essential Ingredients for Your Cinnamon Roll Pie
- Creative Variations to Customize Your Pie
- Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Cinnamon Roll Pie
- Proper Storage for Maximum Freshness
- Pro Tips for a Perfect Cinnamon Roll Pie Every Time
- Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Pie
- Explore More Irresistible Cinnamon Desserts
Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try
This Cinnamon Roll Pie recipe stands out for its incredible simplicity and unmatched flavor. It’s the perfect solution when you crave a homemade-tasting dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. The magic begins with store-bought cinnamon rolls, which cleverly form the foundation of our unique pie crust. Forget the fuss of traditional pie dough; simply press these soft rolls into a pie plate, and you’re halfway to a delicious creation.
Layered atop this ingenious crust is a rich, buttery filling featuring a generous blend of chopped pecans and a luscious brown sugar and butter sauce. This combination bakes down into a wonderfully sticky, sweet, and nutty center that perfectly complements the tender cinnamon roll crust. The crowning glory is a smooth, sweet icing, typically included with the cinnamon rolls, which melts slightly into the warm pie, creating an irresistible finish.
Its versatility makes this pie a true winner. While it’s decadent enough for dessert, it also shines as a special breakfast or brunch item. Imagine serving warm slices on Christmas morning or for a festive holiday gathering – it’s a guaranteed showstopper that brings smiles to every face. The ease of preparation, combined with its impressive presentation and flavor, ensures this Cinnamon Roll Pie will become a cherished recipe in your collection.
Essential Ingredients for Your Cinnamon Roll Pie
Crafting this delightful Cinnamon Roll Pie requires just a few simple, accessible ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward nature, allowing the classic flavors to truly shine. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this comforting dessert:
- Cinnamon Rolls: The star of our pie! You’ll need two cans of ready-to-bake cinnamon rolls, typically 8-count each. Any store brand or your preferred national brand will work wonderfully. These rolls form both the bottom and top crusts, providing that characteristic soft, sweet base.
- Brown Sugar: This ingredient is crucial for creating the rich, caramel-like sweetness in our filling. You can opt for either light brown sugar for a milder molasses flavor or dark brown sugar for a deeper, more intense taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try our Homemade Brown Sugar Recipe for an extra touch of freshness.
- All-Purpose Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour is used in the pecan filling. It helps to bind the mixture, preventing it from becoming too watery and ensuring a perfectly gooey consistency that clings beautifully to the cinnamon rolls.
- Ground Cinnamon: While the cinnamon rolls already provide a good dose of cinnamon flavor, an extra tablespoon of ground cinnamon in the filling amplifies that warm, inviting spice. Feel free to adjust this amount to your personal preference – add a little more if you love a strong cinnamon kick, or a little less for a subtle hint.
- Butter: Real butter is non-negotiable for this recipe! Melted butter enriches the pecan filling, adding moisture, depth, and a luxurious richness that makes the pie truly decadent. Avoid substitutes for the best flavor and texture.
- Chopped Pecans: These provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweet cinnamon. You’ll need about 1½ cups of chopped pecans. If you or your guests have a nut allergy or simply don’t care for nuts, feel free to omit them entirely without compromising the pie’s deliciousness. You can also substitute with walnuts if preferred.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Pie
One of the joys of baking is the ability to adapt recipes to suit your taste, and this Cinnamon Roll Pie is wonderfully versatile. While the classic version is undeniably delicious, these variations allow you to experiment with different flavors and textures, making it truly your own. Get creative and discover new favorites!
- Apple Pie Filling Delight: Transform your Cinnamon Roll Pie into a comforting apple cinnamon roll masterpiece. After pressing the bottom crust, spread a layer of your favorite canned apple pie filling over it. Then, continue with the top layer of cinnamon rolls and skip the brown sugar pecan topping for a simpler, fruit-forward pie. The sweet apples baked into the cinnamon rolls create a fantastic seasonal treat, especially in the fall.
- Pumpkin Pie Twist: For a festive autumnal twist, consider adding pumpkin pie filling. After laying down the bottom cinnamon roll crust, gently spread a layer of pre-made pumpkin pie filling on top. This creates a wonderfully creamy and spiced layer that pairs exquisitely with the cinnamon rolls, offering a unique and delicious combination perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall occasion.
- Enhanced Icing Options: The icing included with the cinnamon roll packages is perfect for a quick finish. However, if you desire an extra luxurious touch or simply more frosting, you have a few options. You can purchase an additional can of cream cheese frosting from the store and generously drizzle it over the cooled pie. Alternatively, whip up a simple homemade glaze using powdered sugar, a splash of milk or cream, and a dash of vanilla extract for a truly personalized touch. Adjust the consistency to your liking for a thicker or thinner drizzle.
- Nutty Alternatives: While pecans offer a classic flavor and satisfying crunch, don’t hesitate to experiment with other nuts. Chopped walnuts are an excellent substitute, providing a slightly different earthy note. If you prefer a completely nut-free pie due to allergies or preference, simply omit the nuts from the filling. The pie will still be incredibly delicious with its rich brown sugar and butter mixture. You could also try adding mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist if skipping nuts.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Cinnamon Roll Pie
Creating this irresistible Cinnamon Roll Pie is a straightforward process, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve a spectacular result. Follow these detailed steps to bake your way to a perfect, gooey, and flavorful pie.
- Step 1 – Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly spray a standard 9-inch pie pan with a non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your pie releases easily after baking.
Step 2 – Halve the Cinnamon Rolls: Carefully open both cans of cinnamon rolls and set the icing packets aside for later. Take each cinnamon roll and slice it horizontally in half, effectively creating two thinner cinnamon roll spirals from each original roll. This step is crucial for achieving a more uniform crust that bakes evenly.
Step 3 – Flatten the Rolls: Lightly sprinkle a clean working surface with all-purpose flour. Place the halved cinnamon rolls onto the floured surface and use a rolling pin to gently roll them out until they are thin and slightly larger in diameter. This helps them form a cohesive crust without excessive gaps.
Step 4 – Create the Bottom Crust: Arrange about half of the flattened cinnamon roll pieces into the prepared 9-inch pie plate. Gently press the rolls together, ensuring there are no significant gaps or holes, to form a solid and even bottom crust. You want it to be as continuous as possible to hold the filling.
Step 5 – Prepare the Pecan Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and form a thick, fragrant mixture. The flour helps to create a gooey, not watery, consistency.
Step 6 – Add Pecans to Filling: Once the brown sugar mixture is ready, stir in the chopped pecans. Make sure the pecans are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This ensures every bite of your pie will have that delightful nutty crunch.
Step 7 – Layer the First Filling: Spread about two-thirds of the pecan filling mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll crust in the pie pan. Gently press it down so it adheres to the crust. This layer will become wonderfully gooey as it bakes.
Step 8 – Form the Top Crust: Take the remaining flattened cinnamon roll pieces and carefully layer them on top of the pecan filling. Just like with the bottom crust, press these rolls together gently to form a complete top crust, making sure there are no large holes. Pinch the edges of the top and bottom cinnamon roll layers together around the rim of the pie dish to seal the filling inside.
Step 9 – Add Remaining Filling: Finally, spread the remaining one-third of the pecan filling mixture evenly over the top layer of cinnamon rolls. This will create a beautiful, caramelized topping once baked, adding extra flavor and texture.
Step 10 – Bake the Pie: Cover the entire pie dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes with the foil on. This prevents the top from browning too quickly. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top of the pie is golden brown and the rolls are cooked through. The total baking time is approximately 30-35 minutes.
Step 11 – Cool and Glaze: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire cooling rack. Allow it to cool at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes before proceeding. This cooling time helps the pie set. When the pie is still warm but not hot, open the reserved icing packets from the cinnamon rolls and generously drizzle the glaze over the entire pie. The warmth of the pie will slightly melt the icing, creating a beautiful, glossy finish. Then, your delicious Cinnamon Roll Pie is ready to be sliced, served, and savored!
Proper Storage for Maximum Freshness
Ensuring your Cinnamon Roll Pie stays delicious for as long as possible is key. Proper storage methods will help maintain its soft, gooey texture and rich flavor. Here’s how to best store your pie:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the pie within a day or two and your kitchen isn’t overly warm, you can store it at room temperature. Place the cooled pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It will remain fresh for up to 2 days, keeping its soft texture intact. This is ideal if you’re serving it for breakfast or brunch soon after baking.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, the refrigerator is your best bet. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Stored this way, the Cinnamon Roll Pie will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Before serving, allow individual slices to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, or warm them gently in the microwave or oven for that freshly baked taste and texture.
- Freezer: This pie freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying a single slice whenever a craving strikes. For best results, allow the pie to cool completely. You can freeze the entire pie by wrapping it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Alternatively, slice the pie into individual servings, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in an airtight freezer container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply transfer to the refrigerator overnight or let individual slices come to room temperature. You can then warm them in the microwave or oven before enjoying.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Cinnamon Roll Pie Every Time
Achieving a consistently delicious Cinnamon Roll Pie is easy with a few expert tricks. These pro tips will help you ensure your pie turns out perfectly gooey, golden, and utterly irresistible every time you bake it.
- Choose the Right Cinnamon Rolls: The size of your cinnamon rolls matters! Original-sized, standard canned cinnamon rolls (like the 8-count packages) work best for this recipe. Larger or jumbo rolls might be too thick and could result in an unevenly baked crust or an altered texture in the finished pie. Stick to the classic size for optimal results.
- Roll Thin for a Better Crust: Don’t skip the step of flattening each cinnamon roll slightly before arranging them in the pie dish. Rolling them thinly helps create a more cohesive and even crust, preventing thick, doughy spots and ensuring all layers cook through properly. Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking and make this process much easier.
- Press Firmly into the Pan: When forming both the bottom and top crusts, ensure you firmly press the cinnamon roll pieces together. The goal is to eliminate any gaps or cracks between the rolls, creating a uniform and sealed crust. This prevents the filling from seeping out during baking and ensures a sturdy base for your delicious pie.
- Cover with Foil for Even Baking: For the first 20 minutes of baking, covering the pie loosely with aluminum foil is essential. This crucial step prevents the top crust from browning too quickly or burning before the inner layers are thoroughly cooked. Removing the foil for the last 10-15 minutes then allows the top to achieve that beautiful, golden-brown finish.
- Even Spacing is Key: When placing the flattened cinnamon rolls into the pie dish for both the bottom and top layers, try to arrange them as evenly as possible. Uniform spacing helps the rolls bake consistently, rise smoothly, and contribute to an appealing final presentation.
- Check for Doneness Accurately: The pie is typically done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If you’re unsure, you can gently insert a thin knife or toothpick into the center of the pie (avoiding the filling) to check if the cinnamon roll dough is cooked through. It should come out clean or with minimal moist crumbs.
- Cool Slightly Before Glazing and Serving: Patience is a virtue when it comes to glazing. Allow the baked pie to rest on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before drizzling with the icing. Applying glaze to a piping hot pie can cause it to melt too quickly and run off the sides. A slightly warm pie will allow the glaze to melt just enough to coat beautifully without disappearing completely, creating that signature gooey finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Pie
Here are some common questions about making and serving this delicious Cinnamon Roll Pie, providing helpful answers to ensure your baking experience is a smooth one.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Pie?
This pie is best enjoyed warm and served by the slice. The warmth enhances the gooey texture of the cinnamon rolls and the rich flavor of the pecan filling. If your pie has cooled completely, you can easily reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm. For an entire pie, place it back in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes an excellent accompaniment!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Pie?
The versatility of Cinnamon Roll Pie means it pairs well with various dishes, depending on the meal. For breakfast or brunch, it’s absolutely delicious alongside savory items like crispy bacon, juicy sausage, or scrambled eggs. It adds a touch of sweetness to balance your morning spread. As a dessert, it’s wonderful on its own, but also complements a hot cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or even a spiced tea, making it a perfect end to any meal.
Can you Make Cinnamon Roll Pie in Advance?
Yes, this is a fantastic recipe for preparing ahead of time! You can assemble and bake the cinnamon roll pie as directed, but crucially, do not add the icing. Allow the baked pie to cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator (as per the storage instructions above). When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the pie in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Once warm, drizzle with the reserved icing and serve. This makes entertaining much easier!
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for the crust?
While this recipe is designed for the convenience of canned cinnamon rolls, you absolutely can use homemade cinnamon rolls for an extra special touch. Just ensure they are rolled out thin enough to form the crust as described in the instructions. This will add an extra layer of homemade goodness to your pie.
What kind of pie dish is best for Cinnamon Roll Pie?
A standard 9-inch pie dish, whether ceramic, glass, or metal, works perfectly for this recipe. A light-colored metal pie pan tends to produce a crispier bottom crust, while glass and ceramic dishes can give you a more evenly cooked, slightly softer crust. Just make sure to grease it well with non-stick spray, regardless of the material.
Explore More Irresistible Cinnamon Desserts
If the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon captures your heart, there’s a whole world of delightful desserts waiting to be explored. From quick treats to more elaborate bakes, cinnamon adds a special touch to any sweet creation. Here are a few more cinnamon-infused recipes that are sure to become family favorites:
- Cinnamon Roll Cookies: All the flavor of a cinnamon roll packed into a convenient, chewy cookie. These are perfect for lunchboxes or a quick snack.
- Easy Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: A moist and tender cake soaked in a sweet, milky glaze, capturing the essence of cinnamon rolls in every forkful. It’s incredibly simple to make and always a hit.
- Cinnamon Roll Waffles: Elevate your breakfast or brunch with these quick and easy waffles made from store-bought cinnamon rolls. They’re crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
- Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Cups: Individual mini pies made with cinnamon roll dough and a sweet apple filling. Perfect for portion control and easy serving at gatherings.
For an even broader selection, dive into our extensive collection of Cinnamon Dessert Recipes. You’ll find countless ways to incorporate this beloved spice into your baking, from cakes and cookies to breads and, of course, more pies!
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to making the most delicious Cinnamon Roll Pie that everyone will rave about. It’s an easy yet incredibly decadent dessert that’s perfect for any time of day or any special occasion. We truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe. Please let us know how much you love it by leaving a comment and a star rating below!
Cinnamon Roll Pie Recipe
Cinnamon Roll Pie Recipe features a tasty cinnamon roll crust with a delightful pecan topping. The entire pie is finished with a sweet, creamy frosting drizzle.
- Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
- Cook Time:
- 30 minutes
- Total Time:
- 50 minutes
- Servings:
- 8
- Cuisine:
- American
- Course:
- Dessert
- Calories:
- 535 kcal
- Author:
- Carrie Barnard
Ingredients
- 2 cans Cinnamon Rolls (8 count each)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- 1 Tablespoon Ground Cinnamon
- 6 Tablespoons Butter (melted)
- 1 1/2 cups Chopped Pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175°C) and spray a pie pan with a non-stick cooking spray.
- Open the cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside. Then cut each of the cinnamon rolls in half (to make 2 thinner cinnamon rolls). Sprinkle flour on a working surface and use a rolling pin to roll out the cinnamon rolls with flour to make them thin.
- Layer the bottom of the pie pan with about half of the flattened cinnamon rolls to create the bottom of the pie crust.
- In a mixing bowl, stir together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Spread two-thirds of this mixture over the bottom crust in the pie pan. Layer the rest of the cinnamon rolls on top to make the top crust. Pinch together any holes and gently press the top crust onto the bottom layer of cinnamon rolls so that they are sealed together. Spread the remaining filling on top of this layer of cinnamon rolls.
- Cover the entire pie loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for 10-15 more minutes to brown the top of the pie and ensure it’s cooked through.
- Allow the pie to cool at room temperature on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before icing.
- Once the pie is slightly cooled, drizzle generously with the frosting that came in the cinnamon roll packages.
- Then the pie is ready to slice, serve, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
I used the original Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls for this recipe, and they worked great. You can use any brand you prefer.
Refrigerate any leftover pie covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy them warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories 535kcal, Carbohydrates 62g, Protein 5g, Fat 32g, Saturated Fat 10g, Polyunsaturated Fat 5g, Monounsaturated Fat 11g, Trans Fat 1g, Cholesterol 23mg, Sodium 482mg, Potassium 131mg, Fiber 3g, Sugar 40g, Vitamin A 277IU, Vitamin C 0.3mg, Calcium 50mg, Iron 2mg